Valerie Simpson is an American R&B songwriter and singer, best known for her collaborative work with her late husband Nickolas Ashford. Together, they were known as Ashford & Simpson, and their impact on the music industry was profound, penning hits for numerous artists including Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross. Simpson's musical style blends soulful vocals with poignant lyrics, a signature sound that is evident in their most influential work, "Ain't No Mountain High Enough". Simpson's contributions to the R&B genre have solidified her place in music history.